A Well-Known Place in Parts (CW16-2015)

Ten Things in this Place:

1. Laptop
2. Ex-boyfriend
3. Telephone
4. Desks
5. Alcohol
6. Lipstick
7. Chairs
8. Sofa
9. Kitchenette
10. Handbag

Choose One Object from the List and Give it a Name:

Ex-boyfriend Charlie Thomas

One Sentence to Describe Charlie or a Time in Charlie’s Life:

Lost everything and eventually had to file for bankruptcy because of the 2008 financial crisis.

Seven Questions and Answers About This Time:

What's wrong with having to start over?
- Only losers and failures have to start over.

What's wrong with losing everything?
- I don't lose everything, other people do.

Why did you start abusing alcohol?
- I'm not abusing alcohol. It helps me relax.

Why do you have to suffer through it alone?
- I suffer through it alone because I am a man.

Why is status so important to you?
- Because it is all that matters

How can you not see the light at the end of the tunnel?
- Because there is none.

Are you going to lose the company?
- I can't. My father would be devastated.

Related Dialogue:

"Thomas & Sons Construction. How may I help You?"

"Hi, can I talk to Charlie? I turn to look up at my boss. 
He's making a back and forth motion with his hand across his neck.

"I'm sorry. Charlie is on a site. Can I take a message?"

"Tell him it's Carter Boys calling. We supplied the bobcats and dump trucks for the 
Tyrell Bay Beach Project. Six months ago, we sent an invoice for $57, 522 we 
haven't received payment yet."

"Ok. Thank you. I will let him know."

"You tell him too that he has until the end of the month to make payment in full. 
Otherwise, the account goes to collections."

"Ok. Will do. Thanks. Bye."

"Hey Charlie, that was Carter Bo …" Before I could finish, he cuts me off. Saying,

"Yeah, I know. I was standing right beside you, remember?" 
He opens the mini-fridge, grabs a beer and continues.

"At this point, everybody wants their money, but I have none to give them."

"I have no money for our suppliers because the clients aren't paying. 
I've consolidated and liquidated everything I can." 
The phone starts ringing again, but he continues talking.

"I've called in every favour and even put my personal finances in the business."
I  move to answer the phone.

"Leave it alone!" he snaps. "It's hot. Let's get out of the office and go for a drink.
I am going to need it. Another project is on hold - I have to lay off more guys today."

Feature Photo Credit: @zelmabrezinska via Twenty20